Volkswagen is describing its 2012 Beetle, just unveiled in Shanghai, as ‘masculine’.
In a word, that could sum up the shift in direction applied to the new car. Out goes the cutesy retro shtick of the previous generation model, defined for many by the presence of a flower vase stuck on the dashboard. Even Barbie had one of those Beetles, in bright pink of course.
The looks of the 2012 Beetle don’t come as a huge surprise, as they were previewed by the Ragster concept of a few years ago. Longer, wider and shorter, its change in dimensions results in a squat, purposeful stance that should help to broaden the Beetle’s appeal.
It’s also a more practical proposition, as the roof line extends further back which should make things less cramped for rear seat passengers. Luggage space has increased too, rising from a paltry 209 litres to a much better 310 litres.
When UK sales start in early 2012, buyers will be able to choose from three trim levels - basic Beetle, Design or Sport - although exact specifications and prices have yet to be confirmed.
As expected, the engine line-up for the European, Asian and Australian / New Zealand versions is borrowed from the existing Golf and Jetta ranges.
Petrol fans will be able to go for a 103 bhp (77 kW / 105 PS) 1.2 litre TSI, a 157 bhp (117 kW / 160 PS) 1.4 litre TSI or a 197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS) 2.0 litre TSI which comes with an XDS electronic differential lock.
There’ll only be one diesel though, a 103 bhp (77 kW / 105 PS) 1.6 litre unit with BlueMotion Technology that’s anticipated to deliver 65.7 mpg (4.3 l/100km) and CO2 emissions of 112 g/km.
For North America, the petrol alternatives are either a 167 bhp (125 kW / 170 PS) 2.5 litre five-cylinder engine, or the same 197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS) 2.0 litre TSI motor as offered elsewhere.
Additionally, Volkswagen is going to attempt to sell a diesel Beetle in those markets for the first time. Quite how popular the 138 bhp (103 kW / 140 PS) 2.0 litre TDI option will be remains to be seen, however.
